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# II. A Direct Democracy but with Limitations The art of oratory held a significant place in Athenian life. Public speeches and debates in the agora highlighted the importance the Athenians placed on political discussion. Rhetoric instruction was common, especially for wealthy young men. Theatre...

# II. A Direct Democracy but with Limitations The art of oratory held a significant place in Athenian life. Public speeches and debates in the agora highlighted the importance the Athenians placed on political discussion. Rhetoric instruction was common, especially for wealthy young men. Theatre was also essential, with playwrights like Aeschylus and Euripides praising Athenian values, while Aristophanes' comedies satirized societal flaws. During the 4th century BCE, critics questioned the capacity of the people to govern effectively. Philosophers like Plato favored a smaller group of skilled leaders (oligarchy) over a democracy. He worried about the potential for demagoguery and unchecked power in eloquent speakers. Only 10-15% of the Athenian population held citizenship, around 30,000-40,000 people. * **Women:** Athenian women had limited rights. They were under the guardianship of a male relative (father, husband, or brother) and had no political rights. Their role was primarily domestic, focusing on household management and raising children. However, they were involved in religious festivities and these events played an active role in Athenian societal life. * **Foreign Residents (Metoeci):** There were around 40,000 foreign residents, largely artisans and merchants. While they did have access to courts and participated in religious festivals, they lacked political rights and couldn't own land. However, the wealthy among them served as soldiers (hoplites) while the less wealthy would work as oarsmen. * **Slaves:** Slavery played a significant role, with more than 110,000 slaves in Attica, comprising approximately half of the population. In contrast to other ancient societies, Athenian law forbade the enslavement of other Athenians. Slaves were seen as property and deprived of all rights. However, Athenian slaves played a role in the Athenian economy. They were frequently employed in manual labor within agriculture, mining, construction, and trade. Furthermore, some were administrators, holding positions in government offices. This administrative work contributed to the smooth functioning of Athenian society and included record keeping, judicial functions, policing and administrative duties, helping to assure Athenian democracy could function. Although without the political rights of citizens, slaves did contribute to the Athenian democracy in practical ways. The Athenian economy relied heavily on the labor of slaves in agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. Wealthy citizens had significant leisure time to focus on politics. **Direct Democracy:** Athenian democracy allowed for direct participation in decision-making by citizens.